Gordon Hayward underwent surgery to remove screws, expected to be back for training camp

The Boston Celtics announced Wednesday that Gordon Hayward underwent successful surgery to remove screws and plates from his left leg.

“Hayward’s ankle and fibula are both structurally sound, and the removal of the plate and screws was necessary as they were causing irritation to his peroneal tendons. He is scheduled to return to basketball activities in six to eight weeks.”

Hayward suffered a broken fibula and a dislocated ankle during Boston’s season opener in October and missed the entire regular season and playoffs. The Celtics made it to the Eastern Conference Finals without him and Kyrie Irving, needing only one more win to reach the NBA Finals.

The announcement also included information on Aron Baynes’ broken nose. Baynes suffered a nasal fracture in Game 6 against Cleveland and underwent successful surgery. He is expected to return to basketball activities in two to four weeks as he enters free agency for the second straight year.

After an injury-riddled season for the Celtics, this offseason should make for a streak of good news regarding recoveries as Boston eyes an NBA championship next year.